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June 29, 2026
Dear Virginia Run Families,
For many years, the Welcome Walk has been a cherished tradition at Virginia Run Elementary School. It was originally created as an opportunity for teachers to introduce themselves to students and families in their neighborhoods before the start of the school year.
As our school community has grown and evolved, we have carefully reflected on the purpose, impact, and sustainability of this tradition. After thoughtful consideration, Virginia Run Elementary School will no longer conduct a Welcome Walk beginning with the 2026-27 school year.
Several factors contributed to this decision. Families now have access to teacher assignments through ParentVUE and Schoology prior to the start of school, providing opportunities to learn who their child's teacher will be before our open house event. Additionally, our growing attendance area now spans five neighborhoods, making travel time significantly greater for staff. We have also considered the increased demands placed on teachers during the critical days leading up to the start of school, including classroom preparation, professional learning, and the classroom relocation of many staff members throughout the building.
After consulting with the FCPS Risk Management Team, we carefully assessed the liability involved with the Welcome Walk. One key concern is that if a staff member were to be involved in an accident while participating, personal vehicle damages would not be covered under county policy. Unfortunately, other schools have experienced incidents during similar activities, which highlighted the risks associated with staff traveling throughout the community in their personal vehicles. With that in mind, we have decided it is in the best interest of our staff's safety and well-being to discontinue this tradition.
While we are retiring the Welcome Walk tradition, we remain deeply committed to building strong relationships with our students and families. In alignment with FCPS guidance, we are excited to provide multiple opportunities for families to connect with our school community before and during the school year.
Please mark your calendars for:
Open House and PTA Family Picnic: Thursday, August 20, 2026
Back to School Night: Wednesday, September 9, 2026
The Open House will provide families with an opportunity to visit the school, meet teachers and staff, explore classrooms, and reconnect with friends before the first day of school. The PTA Family Picnic will offer an additional opportunity for our community to gather, build relationships, and celebrate the start of a new year together.
Back to School Night will continue to provide parents and guardians with a more detailed look at curriculum, academic expectations, communication practices, and ways to support student success throughout the year.
We are grateful for the memories created through the Welcome Walk tradition and look forward to welcoming our students and families through these new opportunities to connect.
Together, we will continue to make Virginia Run Elementary School a place where every child feels known, valued, and supported.
Sincerely,
Dave Gerstner, Principal
Virginia Run Elementary School
We are ONE VRES!
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